Tourists are the perfect target for taxi scams because they often do not know the local language or customs, and are unfamiliar with the area and currency. Taxi drivers have been known to overcharge, add additional fees, take longer routes, provide incorrect change, and steal belongings from unsuspecting tourists. In order to ensure that you don't get scammed by a taxi while traveling you should always plan ahead, only take well-marked and licensed taxis, pay using small bills, and make sure the meter is working before entering the vehicle.

Steps

Method1

Planning Ahead

1

Know the fastest route. It is always smart to have a general idea of where you are going and what the fastest route should be before entering a taxi. Some taxi drivers will scam tourists by taking them on longer "scenic" routes in order to run up the meter, making the trip more expensive.

When you enter the taxi say “you are going to take X highway to the hotel right?” This will signal to the driver that you know your way around and will help to avoid a potential scam.

Despite your best research, depending on the time of day and traffic, there may be faster alternate routes. Some cabs will take a longer distance route to avoid getting stuck in rush hour traffic.

2

Research taxi customs and regulations prior to traveling. In some countries tipping a taxi driver is not customary, in other areas taxis will add on charges for baggage, additional passengers, or rush hour service. You should always do some research prior to your trip in order to get a general idea of common taxi customs and regulations. This will allow you to know what to expect and it will be easier to spot a scam.

For instance, if a taxi tries to charge you for extra baggage, but that is not customary to the area then it is likely a scam.

3

Know the going rate. It is always best to have the cab driver use the meter and pay the price that shows up on the meter. That being said some drivers can scam you by charging the busy evening or weekend rate during the day. Some drivers may claim the meter is broken and try to charge you an excessive rate. As a result it is a good idea to know the going rate in advance.[1]

For example, you can ask your concierge for the standard rate from the hotel to the airport. This will help you to avoid being overcharged.

For some cities you can look up fares and prices for common taxi routes online using the website www.taxifarefinder.com.

Before getting into a cab, ask the driver how much the fare should be. They will not be able to give you an exact amount due to potential traffic, but they can likely give you a general idea of the rate.

Method2

Making Smart Decisions when Choosing a Taxi

1

Use a taxi stand if possible. Another way to avoid taxi scams is by using a taxi stand whenever possible. In many cases people will flag down taxis and hop in. This can be convenient, however, it can also raise your chances of taking an unmarked or unlicensed taxi. In many cities taxi stands will be clearly marked on maps and are easy to find throughout the city.[2]

Always use a taxi stand at the airport. Many unlicensed drivers will pick up unsuspecting tourists.

2

Always take well marked cabs. Some people will get scammed by taking an unmarked or unlicensed taxi. These cars will often advertise cheaper rates that may seem appealing to a traveler on a budget. This is typically because unlicensed taxis do not need to follow industry regulations and many of them can be complete scams. As a result, you should always take well marked taxis while traveling.[3]

The cab should have a visible taxi-company logo and telephone number on the outside of the vehicle.

Avoid unmarked cabs with makeshift taxi lights on top.

3

Ask your concierge to book you a taxi. To ensure that you are taking a legitimate taxi with a licensed driver, you can always ask your hotel concierge to call or book you a taxi. This prevents you from having to flag down a cab and the hotel will most likely use a reputable company. Most scams happen when using unmarked or unlicensed taxis.[4]

4

Carry the phone number of a reputable taxi company. In order to make sure that you always take licensed cabs, you can write down the telephone number of a major taxi company. Ask your concierge to give you the number prior to leaving the hotel for the first time. This way if you need to take a taxi at any point during your travels, you can always call and order a cab from a local reputable company.

You should also write down the address and telephone number of your hotel. This will help you communicate the address to taxi drivers even if you don't speak the same language.

Method3

Avoiding Scams while Taking a Taxi

1

Make sure the taxi meter is working. One common taxi scam occurs when the driver pretends that the meter is not working and attempts to charge an extremely high price. In order to avoid this scam, you should discuss the rate with the taxi driver ahead of time and ask the driver about the meter prior to departing.[5]

If your driver refuses to use the meter or tries to say that it is cheaper without the meter, do not get in the cab and find a different taxi.

2

Pay for the cab in small bills. Some taxi scams involve giving incorrect change, switching bills, or shortchanging customers. As a result, you should always pay for cabs with small bills. Also, when you give the driver money, count out loud the amount you are giving them. This will help prevent the driver from switching out a $50 bill for a $20 bill.[6]

For example, if the taxi ride cost $12 you can say “Here is a $20 bill, can I get $5 back?”

3

Don’t pay until after all your belongings have been unloaded. Although rare, some drivers have been known to drive away with your luggage or personal belongings in the cab. As a result you should never pay the fare until after all your belongings have been unloaded from the vehicle.

4

Don't put your valuables in the trunk of the vehicle. Make sure to keep your valuable items in the front seat with you even if this means keeping your bag on your lap to fit everyone in the vehicle. Never put your passport, wallet or electronics in the trunk.

5

Write down the driver's name and license plate number. It is a good idea to always write down the name and license number of the taxi you are taking. This way if you ever feel threatened, lose an item, or get scammed you can report the driver and vehicle to the taxi company.

If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable while taking a taxi, ask the driver to stop the car and exit the vehicle as soon as possible.[7]

Method4

Finding Alternative Means of Transportation

1

Arrange for a shuttle to pick you up from the airport. A lot of taxi scams take place at airports, when travelers are tired and most susceptible to getting ripped off. If you are traveling to a foreign country for the first time and are not familiar with the language or customs, you may want to arrange for a shuttle or other service to pick you up from the airport.[8]

This can often be arranged through your hotel, and some hotels will even have a complimentary airport shuttle service.

2

Take public transit. If you are nervous about taxi scams while traveling, you can avoid them altogether by using other modes of transportation. Many large cities will have excellent and affordable public transportation systems. Although at time less convenient, traveling on public transit can be a reasonable way to get around a city or country while traveling.[9]

You will also get an opportunity to interact with locals and see what it is really like living in this part of the world.

3

Try Uber. Another way to avoid taxi scams, is by using Uber while traveling. Uber allows you to order a driver using an app on your phone. It will send you the name and a picture of your driver as well as the type of vehicle and license plate number. This way, if you have any difficulties with the ride, you can report the driver to the local authorities. Uber also pays in advance with your credit card so you do not need to worry about getting scammed for extra charges. Uber is available in major cities across the globe and is a great tool to use while traveling abroad.[10]

You will need to have a wifi connection to order a car and track the driver. Most airports will have free wifi, but this may be more difficult to find when you are out and about.

4

Rent a car. For some vacations, it may make sense to rent a car instead of relying on taxis or public transit. Although this can be more expensive, it will give you the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can also easily travel between cities or take longer trips that would be too expensive in a taxi.

Make sure that you are familiar with local driving customs prior to travel.

Check to see that your driver's license is legal in the country you are traveling to.